Our U mag blog is up and running today, giving you access to a treasure trove of information.

Just click on www.umaghawaii.com. The weekly blog, new each Friday, will give you an insider's view of Island fashion. This week: a peek into my fashion writer's notebook.

Of course there will be fashion advice, but also updates and information via blogs from Fashion Forum members near and far: Amy deFilippi in India (where she is advancing her understanding of yoga), Tina Vines in New York (where she's working for Betsey Johnson) and Sherry Shaoling in Los Angeles (where her entertainment career is taking off).

You'll learn what's in style right now, where to shop, what's a great fashion-related read and even how to get that spaghetti stain out of your blouse. Sometimes we'll take a philosophical, thoughtful approach to a subject; other times we'll blog about what's bugging us. One blog may be a practical, useful how-to tip, the next may be a rant.

Who knows what you'll find on the U mag blog? You'll simply have to add it to your list of favorites and click on it often to find out.

LOUIS VUITTON LAUNCHES MONOGRAM MIROIR

It's so incredibly shiny that it looks as though it was dipped in metal. In fact, you can almost see yourself in it. That's the look of a new technical innovation from Louis Vuitton, Vinyle Miroir. It's a super-shiny look that designers favored on the spring runways for their shoes and other accessories.

In time for Valentine's Day gift giving, Hawai'i Louis Vuitton stores have the Monogram Miroir available in a heart-shaped coin purse in a choice of silver or gold ($365).

OPTIMYSSTIQUE OFFERS FASHION COMPONENT

"I Have a Dream" is the Martin Luther King-inspired theme of an interactive wellness event to be held from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Jan. 20, in Waimea Valley Audubon Center. While the focus is on yoga, eco-environmentalism and wellness, there will also be a fashion show. Those who attended the FACE of Nu'uanu fashion show will remember the dramatic presence of Bad Sushi; they plan to do it again at Optimysstique. In addition, The Organik and Urban Jungle will strut their stuff. Tickets are $10 in advance or $15 at the door. Available at Bad Sushi, Jasmine Yoga or by calling 637-2117.

SPRING MAKEUP FROM CHANEL

This just in: Makeup for spring is inspired by clean, airy colors, the shades of fresh starts and new horizons. That's the word from Chanel's directors of makeup creation, Dominique Montcourtois and Heidi Morawetz.

They're recommending a spectrum of blues, soft pinks and opalescent whites. As mentioned here last week, blues are huge this season, from the palest robin's egg blue to deep, dramatic indigo.

First and foremost, the experts remind us, is a flawless complexion. Don't forget your sunscreen!

DRESS FOR SUCCESS CLOTHING SALE

It's time once again for the monthly YWCA clothing sale to benefit Dress for Success, a program that helps dress economically challenged women for their transitions into the workforce. Prices: $5 for tops, pants and skirts; $10 for dresses; $25 for suits. Many of the clothes are new or gently worn. All proceeds from the sale support the program. The sale is on from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. today and from 9 a.m. to noon tomorrow at the Laniakea YWCA, 1040 Richards St.

Reach Paula Rath at paularath@aol.com.